Choose from 1,872 Fun Things to Do in Asia
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Bharat Bhawan
This vast complex was opened in the early 1980s as an homage to India’s thriving art scene. In addition to a well-curated gallery, Bharat Bhavan is home to an open-air theater, studio, auditorium, library, music hall and a handful of other spaces to celebrate visual and performing arts. Travelers who make their way to this destination will find plenty of modern and tribal art, as well as a movie house for classic films and a center for Indian poetry. Bharat Bhavan attracts artists in residence from across the country, as well as tourists seeking a deeper understanding of the diversity, color and culture that’s present in India’s dynamic art scene.
Practical Info
Bharat Bhavan faces the Upper Lake and is located on Lake View Road in the Shymala Hills of Bhopal.
Address: Lake View Road, Shymala Hills, Bhopal, Madhya Pradesh, India 462002, India
From $ 53
Bharat Sevashram Sangha Temple
Bharat Sevashram Sangha, a Hindu charitable organization founded in 1917, operates ashrams throughout the world, but their headquarters are in Kolkata. Visitors to the temple and ashram in Ganga Sagar can learn about the organization’s humanitarian efforts, including disaster relief, healthcare, education, tribal welfare, vocational training programs and spiritual outreach.
While not as religiously significant as Kapil Muni Temple (also in Ganga Sagar), the Bharat Sevashram Sangha Temple is actually larger, comprising three giant towers built in 1979.
Practical Info
The Bharat Sevashram Sangha Temple and Ashram maintains a few guest rooms which they typically offer for free to visiting pilgrims, though donations are appreciated.
Address: Bharat Sevashram Sangha, Rajbalhat, West Bengal India, India
From $ 280
Beijing Zoo
Some 500 different species of animals and more than 14,500 furry friends call the 220-acre Beijing Zoo home. This popular destination, which attracts roughly six million conservationists and nature-lovers alike is one of China’s oldest zoos and houses the largest collection of animals in the country.
Visitors can explore the expansive grounds and get up close to some of the nation’s rarest mammals, like the golden snub-nosed monkey or Siberian tigers. The zoo’s giant panda exhibit is without a doubt its most popular and the nearby aquarium draws travelers eager to check out wild life under the sea, too.
Practical Info
The Beijing Zoo is located in the Xicheng District and is accessible via a number of public bus lines. The zoo is open daily from 7:30 a.m. until 6 p.m. between April and October, and from 10 a.m. until 5 p.m. between November and March.
Address: 137 Xizhimen Outer St, Xicheng, Beijing, China
Hours: Daily April-Oct 7:30am-6pm & Nov-March 10am-5pm
Admission: 10-20 yuan (price varies per season)
From $ 30
Bharatpur
Bharatpur is an 18th-century fort city that primarily attracts visitors due to its proximity to Keoladeo National Park. However, it offers plenty in its own right, with a handful of historic heritage hotels along temples and the 18th-century Lohangarh Fort, reputed to be one of India's strongest.
The Basics
Though Bharatpur primarily serves as a jumping-off point for visiting the nearby bird sanctuary, visitors may want to stop to visit the Lohagarh Fort, with its imposing towers and elephant paintings. There are also a number of temples in the area, and wandering through the city's narrow streets can lend itself to some great photo opportunities. Tours to the nearby park sometimes stop in the city for lunch, but generally don’t make stops at the fort or local temples.
Things to Know Before You Go
- Wear sunscreen and comfortable shoes.
- Bharatpur is good for history buffs and those interested in local culture.
- Bring binoculars if you plan to visit the bird sanctuary.
How to Get There
Bharatpur is popular with travelers en route from Agra (home of the Taj Mahal) to Delhi or Jaipur and is generally used as a base for visiting the nearby Keoladeo National Park. Trains from Delhi take around 3.5 hours, while it's closer to four hours by road. Agra is an hour or so away, and Jaipur takes 2.5 hours by car.
When to Get There
Bharatpur is a year-round attraction, although it can get quite hot in April and May. The best time to visit based on temperatures alone is during the cooler months of the year, from October through March, which also happens to be the best time to see migratory birds in the nearby bird sanctuary.
Rajastjani Food
If you have a little time to spare in Bharatpur, you may want to sample local cuisine. While you’re likely to find North Indian classics, you may also come across regional delights. Don’t miss the chance to try a raj kachori, round disks filled with lentils or other veggies often served at roadside stalls, or spicy laal maas, a quintessentially Rajasthani mutton curry.
Address: Bharatpur, India
From $ 154
Beni Fuji no Yu Onsen
The Beni Fuji no Yu Onsen offers some of the best vantage points in the area. The large public bathhouse has both indoor baths and two rooftop ones, but no matter which pool you’re in, the views of Mt Fuji are stunning. The ones on the roof boast views of a zen garden and trees, as well as the majestic cone-shaped peak of Fuji in the distance. The outdoor baths are arguably best in the winter, when the hot, therapeutic water complements the cold air and snow-capped peak.
The onsen offers guests a multitude of services in addition to the baths. A restaurant serves local cuisine, while visitors can also purchase massages and beauty treatments. There is enough to do within the onsen that many people choose to spend an entire day here, making the unassuming onsen a true highlight of a trip to the Mt Fuji area.
Practical Info
The onsen is open all year round, and all baths are separated by gender. It is open from 10 a.m. to 9 p.m. on weekdays and from 6 a.m. on weekends and holidays in December through March. Admission costs 700 yen (about $7 USD), and the closest metro station is Fujisan Station on the Fujikyuko Line. Many tour buses offer stops at this onsen.
Address: 401-0501 Yamanashi Prefecture, Yamanakoka, Japan
Hours: Weekdays: 10am-9pm; Weekends: 6am-9pm
Admission: Adults 700 Yen
From $ 84
Beomeosa Temple
Beomeosa Temple has a history that dates back to its founding in 678 CE by Buddhist monk Ui Sang, long before the original temple was destroyed during a Japanese invasion in the late 16th century. Perched on Geumjeongsan Mountain, the current temple complex was built in 1713 and includes a pagoda, several pavilions, three ornate gates and 11 hermitages.
While many visitors to the temple come to enjoy the verdant grounds for only a few hours, Beomeosa Temple is one of several in Korea that allows temple stays, where visitors both foreign and Korean can experience firsthand Korean Buddhist monastic life. The main temple stay program here includes meditation sessions, tea ceremonies, traditional monastic meals and several hands-on cultural clinics.
Practical Info
If possible, plan your visit to Beomeosa Temple during the month of May, when the wisteria surrounding the grounds are usually in full bloom.
Address: 546 Cheongnyong-dong, Geumjeong-gu, Busan, South Korea
Hours: Daily 8:30 a.m.-5:30 p.m.
From $ 100
Besant Nagar
Besant Nagar, a popular neighborhood in Chennai most famous as the home of Elliot’s Beach, was named after British activist Annie Besant, founder of the Theosophical Society and staunch supporter of Indian self-rule. Located at the southern end of Chennai’s Marina Beach shore, Besant Nagar is home to many of the city’s wealthy citizens.
Besides Elliot’s Beach, Besant Nagar’s most popular attraction is the 247-acre (100-hectare) Theosophical Society, with its lovely grounds that include a mosque, church, Buddhist and Hindu temples and a sizable religious and philosophical library. Also of interest in the neighborhood are Velankanni Church and Ashtalakshmi Temple.
If all the sightseeing has made you hungry, the cafes and restaurants of Besant Nagar serve excellent South Indian cuisine.
Practical Info
The cheapest way to get from central Chennai to the suburb of Besant Nagar is by bus. They depart frequently and drop off at the Besant Nagar bus depot.
Address: Chennai, India
From $ 57
Beras Basah Island
Sitting to the west of Langkawi’s archipelago of paradise islands, Beras Basah is an idyllic haven, with pristine beaches flanked by a verdant forested inland. Fully conforming to the tranquil Andaman Island ideal, a trip to the shores of Beras Basah is a popular activity for those visiting Pulau Langkawi.
Pulau Beras Basah (literal translation: “Island of Wet Rice”) benefits from remaining non-commercial, yet is still easily accessible from the main island of Langkawi. Despite the daytrippers, it retains its laid-back paradise island ambience with ease. With not much to do but relax then, Beras Basah is the ideal place to sunbathe or take a dip in the island’s inviting waters, where swimmers and snorkelers are said to spot schools of playful dolphins from time to time.
Practical Info
Although most visitors to Beras Basah Island come as part of an island-hopping tour (usually including Singa Besar Island and Dayang Bunting Island) it can also be reached by taking a boat from Langkawi Pulau at Pantai Marble (next to Kuah Jetty) or Pantai Cenang. Visitors should be aware that Beras Basah Island is small and undeveloped and, as such, there are very few amenities or conveniences on the island.
Address: Malaysia
From $ 18
Ben Thanh Market
Let the spirit of Ho Chi Minh City lift you up and carry you through this network of colorful bustling activity. Cho Ben Thanh, or Ben Thanh Market, comes alive every evening with a thrum of tireless energy that never ceases to enthrall.
This is the most celebrated and regularly visited of the markets. It is also the most central, located in one of the liveliest parts of the city where the streets and alleyways surrounding the market place fill with food stalls.
At Ben Thanh Market you can expect to find almost everything that the locals might need in their day to day lives: from fresh meats and vegetables to clothes, domestic items, pots, woven baskets and bamboo ladders. This is a feast for the senses.Take in the sounds: the excited chatter of shoppers and the pitch of vendors’ voices rising into the steaming night.
Breathe in the sweet spiced air - chili, tamarind, ginger - and witness the bright array of colors from exotic fruits to beautiful silks. Try the food stalls for authentic dishes at local prices. This is a rich experience at the beating heart of the city, equally exciting for shoppers and spectators.
Practical Info
Easy to find in the heart of District 1 where Le Loi, Tran Hung Dao and Le Lai converge at the central roundabout.
Often crowded and bustling but makes for a great atmosphere. Be prepared to haggle hard for what you want - it's part of the experience! As is the freshly prepared local food!
Address: Cnr Le Loi, Trang Hung Dao, Le Lai, Ho Chi Minh City District 1, Vietnam
Hours: Open daily. Comes alive around late afternoon/sunset, wraps up in late evening
Admission: Free
From $ 9
Belur Math Shrine
The Belur Math Shrine in Kolkata is the headquarters of the Ramakrishna Mission, based on the religious movement founded in 1898 by Swami Vivekanada. The Swami was a longtime disciple of Ramakrishna Paramahansa, the man who inspired the movement with his teachings on the unity of faith among all religions, and the ashes of Sri Ramakrishna are housed within the shrine.
The Belur Math Shrine is also a physical symbol of such unity, as it includes architectural elements borrowed from Christian, Hindu, Islamic and Buddhist motifs. Depending on your vantage point, the Shrine manages to resemble a church, mosque or temple.
The serene grounds of Belur Math along the riverbank include a handful of smaller shrines that seem to be scattered across the manicured gardens. If you want to appreciate the serenity the shrine is meant to embody, visit on a weekday morning to avoid the crowds of picnickers that sometimes take over the lawn. At 5:30pm each day, visitors can listen to the aarti: religious chants being sung in the prayer hall.
The Belur Math Shrine is also a physical symbol of such unity, as it includes architectural elements borrowed from Christian, Hindu, Islamic and Buddhist motifs. Depending on your vantage point, the Shrine manages to resemble a church, mosque or temple.
The serene grounds of Belur Math along the riverbank include a handful of smaller shrines that seem to be scattered across the manicured gardens. If you want to appreciate the serenity the shrine is meant to embody, visit on a weekday morning to avoid the crowds of picnickers that sometimes take over the lawn. At 5:30pm each day, visitors can listen to the aarti: religious chants being sung in the prayer hall.
Address: Belur rd, Howrah, Kolkata, India
Hours: Apr-Sept: 6am-11:30am & 4pm-7pm; Oct-Mar: 6:30am-11:30am & 3:30pm-6pm
From $ 42
Beng Mealea
Beng Mealea is located 40 kilometers east of the main Angkor Wat complex. The temple was mainly constructed from sandstone, with its architectural style identical to that of Angkor Wat. Because of this, it is thought that Beng Mealea was built in the 12th century under the reign of Suryavarman II.
The temple grounds are surrounded by a gigantic moat and was once entirely consumed by jungle. This atmospheric temple is oriented toward the east, with entranceways from the other three cardinal directions also. If entering from the south, visitors will find themselves amid piles of chiselled sandstone blocks, sweeping vines, and mysterious dark chambers.
The layout of the temple consists of three enclosed galleries situated around a central tower, which has now completely collapsed. There’s a well-preserved library in the northeastern quadrant, plus extensive carvings of scenes from Hindu mythology and long balustrades formed by bodies of the seven-headed Naga serpent.
Practical Info
Beng Mealea is situated approximately 70 kilometers from Siem Reap. The shortest route to the temple is found by heading north at the town of Dam Dek, located around 40 kilometers from Siem Reap, traveling in the direction of Phnom Penh. Arranging a vehicle and driver from Siem Reap is recommended.
Address: Beng Mealea, Temples of Angkor, Siem Reap, Cambodia
Hours: Open daily 7:30am-5:30pm
Admission: US$5
From $ 59
Beitou Hot Springs
Located just 30 minutes north of central Taipei, Beitou is a mountainous area full of natural hot springs and supporting spas, hotels, teahouses, and parks. It’s a popular destination for locals and visitors looking to escape the city and enjoy a soak in warm, mineral-rich waters surrounded by lush forests and beautiful scenery.
The Basics
The Japanese first developed Beitou into a resort destination during their occupation of Taiwan. Today Beitou features public hot spring pools as well as a number of private hot spring resorts and hotels. The public pools offer the best value, though they are also the most crowded. Generally mixed-gender and requiring swimsuits, public hot springs typically have several pools of varying temperature, from ice cold to extremely hot, and patrons often move between different pools during their visit.
Beitou is easy to visit independently. If you have an interest in hot spring culture and history, you can join a tour that also includes the Beitou Hot Spring Museum as well as Yangmingshan National Park, which is full of geothermal features. Or choose a tour that includes other top Taipei attractions such as Taipei 101, Chiang Kai-Shek Memorial Hall, or the National Palace Museum.
Things to Know Before You Go
- Each location has different rules and etiquette, such as whether the pools are segregated by gender and whether swimsuits are required.
- Bring a change of clothing and a bag for wet swimsuits, plus towels for the public hot springs.
- Photography is not allowed in the pool areas.
- Individuals with health issues, such as high blood pressure and heart problems, should not use the hot springs.
How to Get There
Beitou is north of central Taipei. Take the MRT’s Red Line to Beitou Station and transfer to the Pink Line for one stop; disembark at Xinbeitou Station, then walk five minutes to the hot springs. You can also take city bus 216, 218, 266, or S22 to the Beitou Park stop.
When to Get There
The hot springs in Beitou are open year-round. The public hot springs tend to be open-air, and you may find it more pleasant soaking in the hot springs when the weather is cooler. Public hot springs also tend to be open for set intervals, with cleanings in between; check online for the current schedule.
Thermal Valley
One of the most famous attractions in Beitou, Thermal Valley—also known as Hell Valley—is a natural sulfur hot spring filled with steaming greenish-blue water. This spring is a source of water that feeds all the hot springs in Beitou, and water temperatures here can reach 194°F (90°C)—too hot for bathing. Railings prevent visitors from touching the water, but it’s definitely a worthwhile sight to see.
Address: Wenquan Street, Taipei, Taiwan
Admission: Varies
From $ 52
Beijing-Hangzhou Grand Canal
The Beijing–Hangzhou Grand Canal is the longest and oldest man-made waterway in the world, once covering 1,115 miles (1,794 kilometers) from Beijing to Hangzhou. Dating from the fifth century BC, this engineering marvel is now a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Some sections are still in use today.
The Basics
With traditional buildings and historic sites still lining the Beijing–Hangzhou Grand Canal, it’s best appreciated from water level. Travel through hundreds of years of history and gain a better understanding of how the canal transformed trade and commerce in China during a guided canal cruise, or get a closer look at historical buildings during a walking tour alongside the canal.
Visitors in Hangzhou can take a boat from Wulinmen Pier. Visitors in Suzhou or Shanghai can join an organized day tour, covering portions of the canal in Suzhou, along with other attractions, such as a classical garden and an ancient city gate, or activities, such as a rickshaw ride or a visit to a silk mill.
Things to Know Before You Go
- The canal is open to the public, but canal cruises charge a fee.
- Different cruises travel along many sections of the canal. Be sure you’re clear on your departure and drop-off points, if not traveling as part of a guided tour.
- Full-day tours from Shanghai can last more than 10 hours.
How to Get There
Hangzhou and Suzhou feature two popular sections of the canal for visitors. In Hangzhou, cruises depart from Wulinmen Pier. The best way to get to Wulinmen Wharf is by taxi. In Suzhou, the cruise from Xinshiqiao Dock to Shantang Street is popular. Xinshiqiao Dock is about 4 miles (6 kilometers) from Suzhou Railway Station, and the easiest way to get there is by taxi.
When to Get There
Most cruises are offered year-round. Daytime cruises allow you to better see the details of the buildings alongside the canal, while nighttime cruises offer more atmosphere, as many sights will be illuminated. Visit during spring or fall for the most pleasant weather.
History of the Beijing–Hangzhou Grand Canal
The Beijing–Hangzhou Grand Canal’s oldest sections date back to the fifth century BC, but it wasn’t until the Sui dynasty in the seventh century that the different sections were first connected. There was an organized approach to connect the five major rivers: the Hai River, Huai River, Yangtze River, Yellow River, and Qiantang River. Once completed, the Grand Canal greatly developed China’s economy and enhanced communication throughout the country.
Address: China
From $ 40
Bell Tower (Zhonglou)
The word “tower” doesn’t quite do justice to the enormous structure of the Xian Bell Tower (Zhonglou) rising on an imposing square base to a series of terraces and three graceful pagoda roofs. Originally built in 1384 during the Ming Dynasty, it has become a symbol of Xian thanks to its stellar views and classic Chinese architecture.
The Basics
While the original bell no longer rings to announce the dawn, visitors can still see it within the imposing structure at the center of China’s ancient capital. The building's location makes it nearly impossible to miss. Most Xian tours stops at the Bell Tower, along with other notable Xian attractions, such as the Terracotta Warriors and Horses Museum, Xian City Wall, Muslim Quarter, and the Big Wild Goose Pagoda.
Things to Know Before You Go
- The Bell Tower is a must-see for all first-time visitors to Xian.
- Choose between a single-admission ticket to the Bell Tower or a combo ticket that includes the Drum Tower as well.
- Give yourself about an hour to visit the tower and take in the great view.
- A visit to the Bell Tower involves climbing steps and is not wheelchair accessible.
How to Get There
The Bell Tower is about as central as you can get in Xian. The easiest way to get there is either to walk from other areas in the city center or ride the Metro (Line 2) to Bell Tower Station. Numerous public buses also stop at the tower.
When to Get There
The Bell Tower is open daily throughout the year, with extended hours during the warmer months (March to October). If possible, avoid visiting on weekends and Chinese national holidays.
Relocation of the Bell Tower
When the Bell Tower was first constructed, it stood next to a Drum Tower on the ancient city’s central axis. When the center changed after continued growth, it was relocated 3,280 feet (1,000 meters) east of its original site—a notable achievement in 1582. Everything you see today is original, except for the base.
Address: China
From $ 18
Beijing National Stadium
Niaochao, more commonly referred to as the Beijing National Stadium or the Bird’s Nest, was designed and constructed for the 2008 Beijing Olympic Games and has since become a major landmark in China’s capital. Chinese artist Ai Weiwei consulted on the Swiss-designed project, and the result cost $423 million to complete.
Since the Olympics ended, the stadium has served as a tourist attraction and a venue for both international and domestic sporting competitions, including the Supercoppa Italiana and the China Cup. The stadium is set to host the 2015 World Championships in Athletics as well.
Niaochao is most impressive from the outside, where it’s bird’s nest shape is apparent. Situated on the Beijing Olympic Green, Niaochao is free to enjoy from the outside, but you’ll have to pay a fee if you want to enter the stadium. The Water Cube, the second prominent structure from the 2008 Olympics, sits adjacent to Niaochao and is also worth a visit.
Since the Olympics ended, the stadium has served as a tourist attraction and a venue for both international and domestic sporting competitions, including the Supercoppa Italiana and the China Cup. The stadium is set to host the 2015 World Championships in Athletics as well.
Niaochao is most impressive from the outside, where it’s bird’s nest shape is apparent. Situated on the Beijing Olympic Green, Niaochao is free to enjoy from the outside, but you’ll have to pay a fee if you want to enter the stadium. The Water Cube, the second prominent structure from the 2008 Olympics, sits adjacent to Niaochao and is also worth a visit.
Address: Bird's Nest, Xicheng, Beijing, China
Hours: Mar - Oct: 9am - 6pm, Nov - Feb 9am - 5:30pm.
Admission: Tours: Adult: CNY 50, Senior: CNY 25. Event Prices Vary
From $ 16
Bhaktapur
Bhaktapur, once medieval Kathmandu Valley’s seat of power, earns its accolade as Nepal’s best-preserved city. The earthquake of 2015 claimed many historic buildings, but the one-time flourishing kingdom is still packed with old-world charm. Durbar Square, a UNESCO World Heritage Site and heart of the city, is well-worth a visit.
The Basics
The former city-state of Bhaktapur, the most powerful of the three Malla Kingdoms in the Kathmandu Valley, retains a medieval ambiance. Unlike Kathmandu and Patan, it is mainly car-free, so the stunning heritage city gives visitors a sense of centuries-ago lifestyles during royal times in Nepal. Durbar Square, now an open-air museum, contains impressive ancient royal landmarks, including the intricately wood-carved Palace of Fifty-Five Windows and the 17th-century Lion Gate.
Independent travelers can soak up the ambiance with a stroll through Bhaktapur’s cobblestoned streets and red-brick lanes, but visitors wanting more in-depth background information on the one-time kingdom’s history and culture should opt for a guided walking tour. Most excursions have morning or afternoon options and cover all the top heritage sites in Durbar Square—plus little-known corners of the city favored by locals.
Things to Know Before You Go
- Bhaktapur’s Durbar Square is a must-see for history buffs and heritage enthusiasts.
- Don’t forget to taste juju dhau, or “king’s yogurt,” a Bhaktapur delicacy.
- Dress comfortably with proper footwear for cobblestoned streets and uneven surfaces.
- Be prepared for a lot of walking, since the UNESCO-listed Old City is mainly vehicle-free.
How to Get There
Taxi rentals are available from Kathmandu and can be arranged through most hotels. But, the majority of sightseeing tours offer round-trip car transfers, usually with private hotel pickup—by far the easiest way to travel to Bhaktapur. Some tours to Nagarkot, including trekking excursions, also cover sightseeing visits to Bhaktapur en route.
When to Get There
Kathmandu Valley has a mild climate, making Bhaktapur an ideal year-round destination. Time your visit for October to catch Tihar, the Nepali festival of lights, when the city lights up with clay candles to honor the Hindu goddess of wealth, Laxmi. The Nepali New Year every April is celebrated with street processions led by gilded chariots.
Bhaktapur Hiking
For a complete cultural immersion, take a hike through stone villages and terraced farmlands in the Kathmandu Valley, home to multiple Nepali ethnic groups, but mainly the Newars. Trekking routes that begin in Bhaktapur usually ascend to the hilltop resort of Nagarkot, famous for its sunrise and sunset panoramas over the Himalayan mountain chain (on clear days, this even includes Mount Everest).
Address: Bhaktapur, Nepal
Admission: Varies
From $ 35
Beijing Opera
Beijing Opera (Peking Opera) has been around since the late 18th century and was originally performed for the imperial family of the Qing Dynasty. It has enjoyed something of a revival since the Cultural Revolution, with visitors from around the globe coming to see the highly stylized costumes, dances, and singing.
The Basics
While Beijing Opera—much like Western opera—is a bit of an acquired taste, it’s well-worth experiencing during your time in the Chinese capital. Beijing hosts several theaters and performance troops, including the newbie-friendly Liyuan Theatre at the Beijing Qianmen Hotel and the more traditional Huguang Guild Hall.
The most popular way to enjoy a performance is in combination with a Peking duck dinner. In addition to dining on one of the city’s most famous dishes, you can also combine your night at the opera with a nighttime walking tour of Nanluoguxiang Alley and historic Shichahai, or a full-day visit to sites, such as the Forbidden City, Temple of Heaven, or Summer Palace.
Things to Know Before You Go
- Beijing Opera is a must-see for music lovers, couples, and first-time visitors.
- Performances can be quite loud, so bring a pair of earplugs if you’re sensitive.
- Beijing Opera performances are almost always in Mandarin Chinese, but the elaborate makeup, costumes, and gestures help add context for English speakers.
- Guided tours to an opera performance often include hotel pickup and drop-off.
How to Get There
There are several theaters hosting traditional Peking opera performances throughout the city. The easiest and most convenient option is to book a guided tour with round-trip transportation included.
When to Get There
Chinese opera performances typically take place in the evening around 7pm and last about 90 minutes to two hours, depending on the production. It’s a good idea to arrive a few minutes early to find your seat.
It’s All in the Beard
Beijing Opera can be a bit mystifying for the first-timer, but there are many visual cues to help you understand what’s going on onstage. For example, the type of a performer’s beard can indicate the temperament of the character—ghosts and those with hot tempers often have red beards, while villains sport curly beards. Short beards demonstrate selfishness, while long and thick beards are a sign of wealth and power.
Address: Beijing, China
Admission: Varies
From $ 59
Bhangarh Fort
Madho Singh founded the town of Bhangarh in 1631, and at its peak it encompassed a seventeenth century fort and some 10,000 dwellings. Approximately 300 years ago, Bhangarh was deserted for no known reason, leaving behind a complex of well-preserved ruins. Today it’s widely regarded as the most haunted place in India.
While staying past dark in the fort is prohibited, a few brave souls who have managed it have reported several strange phenomena, including the sounds of footsteps or a woman screaming and the sensation of an unseen presence nearby.
Practical Info
The drive to Bhangarh Fort is along an muddy, pot hole-dotted road, so be prepared for a bumpy ride.
Address: Bhangarh, Rajasthan, India
Hours: Closes at sunset
From $ 42
Bhaja Caves
The Bhaja Caves are located in a hill station in the Western Ghats in Maharashtra. These Buddhist shrines were carved out of the mountain face here as far back as the 2nd century BC, providing a fascinating insight into Buddhist culture at that time.
The Bhaja Caves share architectural features with the Karla Caves situated nearby, but are usually less busy to stroll around and explore. The most impressive feature of the Bhaja Caves is its large chaitya (prayer hall), believed to be one of the earliest of its type and featuring a horseshoe-shaped entrance and depictions of Indian mythology.
Also of interest at the caves are the numerous stupas situated both inside and outside. These are the relics of resident monks who died at Bhaja and their names and respective titles are inscribed upon them.
Practical Info
The Bhaja Caves are located in Maharashtra, approximately a two-hour drive from Mumbai. While many choose to visit the Bhaja Caves as part of a day tour from Mumbai, thereby also taking in the other significant caves in the area, they can also be reached via public transport; frequent local buses run from nearby Lonavala to the Karla and Bhaja caves, with the first of the day leaving at 6am.
Address: Maharashtra, India
From $ 75
Bhuleshwar Bazaar
In a neighborhood of markets, south Mumbai’s bustling Bhuleshwar Bazaar has long been a popular shopping spot for locals and visitors alike. Here you'll find everything from vibrant textiles to shimmering costume jewelry, along with many stalls selling practical items such as fruits and vegetables and kitchenware.
The Basics
With its numerous shops and stalls and constant cacophony of activity, Bhuleshwar Bazaar is a great place to get deals on unusual souvenirs and local products. And even if shopping isn't your thing, the market is worth a visit for its great people-watching and photo opportunities. Bhuleshwar Bazaar is a popular stop on shopping tours, and a tour guide can be helpful when it comes to getting an idea of prices and bargaining.
Things to Know Before You Go
Bhuleshwar Bazaar is a must-visit for photographers and shopaholics.
Wear comfortable shoes and be prepared to walk among crowds.
Haggling is part of the shopping experience at the market, so always expect to make a counteroffer.
How to Get There
Bhuleshwar Bazaar is located in South Mumbai, in an area dominated by temples, shops, and residences. Just north of the Fort area, the market is about a 10-minute drive inland from Chowpatty Beach. The nearest commuter railway stations are Charni Road, Sandhurst Road, and Masjid, all of which are about a 15-minute walk away. It’s easiest to get here by taxi or visit as part of an organized tour, especially on hot and humid days.
When to Get There
Most of the shops and stalls at Bhuleshwar Bazaar are open from around 10am or 11am until 8pm or 9pm, though some close on Sundays. It's best to arrive first thing in the day, not only because cooler temperatures make walking around more pleasant, but also because shopkeepers will often give good deals to the first customer of the day for good luck.
Bargaining 101
Bargaining is an essential part of the shopping experience at Indian markets and should be fun. While you may encounter some “fixed-price” shops at Bhuleshwar Bazaar and other area markets, most vendors will expect you to do a little haggling. If quoted a price, make a counteroffer lower than what you’d be willing to pay, say one-third of the quoted price. Ideally, the vendor will meet you somewhere in the middle.
Address: Mumbai, India
From $ 19